Indian authorities have denied permission for the funeral prayers of Dr. Sibtain Masoodi, father-in-law of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, at Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta, Srinagar. According to Kashmir Media Service, the authorities cited the need to "prevent any law and order situation" as the reason for their decision. The family of Dr. Sibtain Masoodi was informed about the authorities' decision. 

It is pertinent to mention that Dr. Sibtain Masoodi, who was also the brother of incumbent Pampore MLA Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi, was to be laid to rest after funeral prayers at Jamia Masjid following Zuhr prayers today. He passed away in the late hours of the night after a prolonged illness.  Meanwhile, in a statement issued in Srinagar, senior APHC leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq strongly condemned the administrationís use of force even in moments of grief and religious observance.

It lamented that instead of allowing people to pay their respects in peace, the authorities resorted to coercion, further alienating the local population. All Parties Hurriyat Conference in a statement also expressed condolences with Mirwaiz Umar Farooq  and the bereaved family of Dr Sibtain Masoodi over the demise. The statement condemned the Indian authorities for not allowing the offering of funeral prayers of the deceased at the Jamia Masjid, Srinagar.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)